CNA Certification (Written Exam)Basic Nursing SkillsEasy
A nurse aide is monitoring a resident's pulse. Which of the following pulse rates would be considered bradycardia for an adult?
- A68 beats per minute (bpm)
- B52 bpm
- C102 bpm
- D84 bpm
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 52 bpm
Bradycardia in an adult is generally defined as a heart rate below 60 beats per minute. A pulse rate of 52 bpm falls into this range and should be reported to the nurse.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 68 bpm is within the normal adult pulse rate range (60-100 bpm).
- C. 102 bpm is above the normal range, indicating tachycardia.
- D. 84 bpm is within the normal adult pulse rate range (60-100 bpm).
Bradycardia in Adults
Bradycardia refers to an adult heart rate that is unusually slow, typically defined as fewer than 60 beats per minute (bpm). It can be normal for some individuals but may also indicate underlying health issues.
- Normal adult pulse range: 60-100 bpm.
- Bradycardia: < 60 bpm.
- Should be reported to the nurse for assessment.
Memory trick: Sixty to Hundred is normal, below is slow, above is fast.